Baauer, “Harlem Shake”

When there is a viral phenomenon, you can choose to either conform or be non-conformist. I found myself tired of hearing about “Harlem Shake” despite never hearing it. And once I heard it, I found my anti-conformist tendencies transforming into conformity. It’s one sick production by Bauuer.

Frank Ocean featuring Earl Sweatshirt, “Super Rich Kids“

Okay, I felt bad for Frank Ocean after what I considered to be an underwhelming performance of his most controversial track, “Forrest Gump“. I’ll tell you what, I haven’t been spinning that one much from 2012’s superb ChannelOrange. It’s been the “Super Rich Kids“that’s been leading that charge as of late. You can’t deny the humor and the reality exhibited by its lyrics. Sorry for those offended…

Charles Bradley, “Strictly Reserved For You“

If it is on Daptone records, you should definitely check it out. Charles Bradley is a youthful sixty-something with killer, soulful pipes. “Strictly Reserved For You” is the first single from Bradley’s upcoming album, Victim of Love. The musicians behind it? R&B instrumental band The Menahan Street Band.

Carrie Underwood, “Two Black Cadillacs“

Genre: Country

There’s just something about the song that instantly latches – more for me than “Blown Away” did. The narrative of the song is superb, as is the chorus (“And the preacher said he was a good man… but the women in the two black veils didn’t bother to cry / bye bye bye bye…”)

Bruno Mars, “When I Was Your Man“

STRFKR, “When I’m Alive“

So yeah if you read into the name, are proficient with text-speak, you’ll realize there are some vowels left out of the band’s name. For a while they kept them in there, and you can see the problem… (add an “A”, “U” and an “E” in that order and you’ve got it). Shock value names aside, “When I’m Alive” opens up the band’s latest Miracle Mileexceptionally. You’ll be hooked if you’re into electro-alternative stuff.

Rick Ross, “Box Chevy”

Hey, he started with a “Box Chevy”, or so Rick Ross proclaims. But if you can’t translate Ross’s gangsta-isms, you can’t deny the malicious sounding top-notch production, particularly those punching 808 hits and clapping snares.

Okay, when I first heard this, I must’ve spun it five or six times. I was that addicted. True to its title, it’s a“power trip”. And you know what else helps? J. Cole approaches the hip-hop game so different from many of his contemporaries. And Miguel is Miguel – a pure talent.

Chrisette Michele

Chrisette Michele, “A Couple of Forevers”

Genre: R&B (Neo-Soul)

Yeah, I think I have a thing for Chrisette Michele. I really do after superb new single “A Couple of Forevers” which takes it back to R&B’s lush, glorious days. Vocal perfection? Well no one’s perfect, but Michele’s voice is rich, nuanced, and is easily one of today’s most talented artists. She deserves wider recognition – and yes, that extends beyond my love for her, LOL.

I’m sure there are plenty of others I could’ve included, but you know that would take too long. Until next time, adios!